The kitchen is no longer just a space for cooking and serving meals. In modern homes, it has quickly become a versatile area where families and friends can bond, study, and entertain, making it one of the busiest and most important rooms in residential properties. 

When planning for a kitchen renovation, it’s easy to lose sight of your goals and focus on dazzling features. However, upgrading the space doesn’t just involve updating your countertops and cabinets. No matter how picture-perfect it looks, there’s one key factor you should consider in every decision you make: functionality. 

After all, kitchen renovations should be a valuable fix-me-upper project and not a downer to your wallet. Don’t let your excitement compromise your blueprints and steer clear from the common remodeling mistakes below: 

Mistake #1: Ignoring the Work Triangle or Five-Point Rule 

The kitchen often sees plenty of action as it juggles meal preparations, cooking, cleaning, and everything in between. Keep in mind that a stunning kitchen won’t do you any good if it’s difficult to move around, so the first thing you should focus on is to design a space that promotes a seamless workflow. 

You can follow the standard work triangle by providing a space where you can easily access the cooking, cleaning, and storage area with little-to-no obstructions. Of course, you can also go for a five-point rule for larger, open spaces that use the kitchen for working or entertainment. 

Mistake #2: Failing to Invest in Quality Lighting 

The lighting is a powerful feature that can make or mar your experience in the kitchen. Dim fixtures can increase the risk of accidents and make performing tasks a dangerous ordeal. It can also make food look unappetizing, so don’t forget to explore your lighting options as it can do wonders for setting the scene. 

Using pendant lighting, for example, can act as a focal point for your kitchen island. Adding recessed lighting under the cabinets can also improve your safety while working as it provides extra visibility and removes any harsh shadows from your overhead lighting. 

Mistake #3: Not Imagining the Kitchen Design in 3-D

Many kitchen designs look stunning when at first glance, but failing to imagine them in 3-D can lead to a series of complications if you’re not careful. Viewing your dream build from a flat perspective runs the risk of compromising the proper dimensions for your appliances, that’s why it’s important to shift your view and account for space you need to accommodate opening the cabinets, doors, and more. 

The Bottom Line: The Importance of Careful Planning for Kitchen Remodels to Ensure It’s Designed for Success

Kitchen renovations can be costly, so be sure to take your time planning carefully to ensure all the changes you make will bring value through the years.

Are You Looking for the Best Remodeling Companies in Houston, Texas?

If you’re looking for the right general contractors in Houston who can make your dream home builds come true, look no further than Incredible Homes! Our full-service design-build firm strives to beautify your space in however you see fit – be it for attic conversions, kitchen remodeling, bathroom upgrades, and other home improvements!